Just Say Something Podcast, Episode #36

On this week’s episode, CEO/Philip Clark sits down with Alison Rauch, the Public
Information Coordinator at Greer CPW to discuss the critical community partnership
and initiatives aimed at promoting environmental safety and public health.

For the past eight years, Alison has been instrumental in strengthening community relations and
promoting environmental initiatives in Greer, South Carolina, by managing
communications and community outreach efforts for CPW. With an impressive
background in public relations, her expertise lies in coordinating events like the bi-
annual drug take-back days and advocating for eco-friendly utility practices.
The focus of their conversation is the upcoming bi-annual drug take-back day, a
collaborative effort to prevent drug misuse and protect the environment. Alison shares
with Phil the history of Greer CPW's involvement in the drug take-back program, which
has successfully removed over 1,500 pounds of pills from the streets. She tells Phil,
"These addictions start at home in grandma's medicine cabinets, and then it builds to
something stronger out on the streets."

They delve into the logistics of these events, the importance of proper medication disposal, and how community partnerships enhance these initiatives.

Additionally, Philip introduces a new endeavor by Just Say Something – the distribution
of lockable prescription vials to prevent medication theft. They discuss the
broader impact of these efforts on community health and ecosystem preservation.
Alison illustrates her message by explaining, "We took a bottle that had a 1985 date on
it. It had disintegrated so much we couldn't even get it out."

Key Takeaways:

-Environmental Impact: Understand the detrimental effects of improper
medication disposal on water ecosystems and how community efforts can
mitigate this.
-Community Partnerships: Discover the strength and importance of community
partnerships in enhancing public health initiatives.
-Lockable Prescription Vials: Get introduced to Just Say Something's new
initiative to distribute lockable prescription vials to reduce medication theft and
misuse.
-Engagement and Outreach: Insights on how CPW engages with the community
beyond utility services, highlighting their commitment to public service and
environmental stewardship.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at
(864)467-4099.

Greer City of Public Works can be reached at www.greercpw.com.

#justsaysomethingpodcast #phillipclark #alisonrauch #greercpw #lockablevials
#drugtakebackday #communityengagement #1500pounds

In this week's episode of Just Say Something’s weekly podcast, CEO Phil Clark takes
center stage to discuss the highly anticipated Red Ribbon Week. With over three
decades at Just Say Something, Phil provides an authoritative voice on the importance
and logistics of this annual event, designed to promote drug prevention across schools,
churches, and communities. Under his leadership, Just Say Something has become
known for its impactful initiatives, particularly Red Ribbon Week, which aims to raise
awareness about drug prevention.Phil provides a brief history of Red Ribbon Week, slated for October 23-31 each year.

Highlighting the national origins rooted in the tragic story of DEA agent Enrique
Camarena, who was kidnapped and killed while fighting against drug trafficking, Phil
emphasizes the enduring significance of this week in keeping his legacy alive.

He also dives into the range of free supplies Just Say Something and the Power Collective offer to schools and
community groups—ranging from wristbands to banners—to help make the event more
engaging and educational. Phil explains the easy steps to order these resources,
focusing on deadlines and pickup dates to ensure community preparation. He says,
"Our Red Ribbon notebook, has ideas, themes, program request forms, order forms, and so much information."

Key Takeaways:

-Red Ribbon Week History: Originates from the story of DEA agent Enrique Camarena.
-Free Supplies: Just Say Something provides free resources for schools and
communities, including wristbands, banners, pledge cards, and stickers. Visit our website to request!
-Order Process: Supplies must be ordered by September 27, with pickups
scheduled for October 17 and 18. Fill out the forms on our website under the Red Ribbon Week section.
-Community Engagement: Encouragement for schools and groups to participate
actively, even suggesting fundraising options like Pennies for Prevention.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at
(864)467-4099.

#justsaysomethingpodcast #philclark #powercollective #redribbonweek #narcosmexico
#communityengagement #preparation #commitment #drugprevention #schools

Just Say Something Podcast, Episode #34

In this episode of Just Say Something's weekly podcast, CEO Philip Clark introduces
Maureen Gavin is the latest addition to the organization's team. Maureen hails from
Orlando, Florida, and shares her journey of moving to Greenville, connecting with Just
Say Something, and secure a role within the team. Her primary responsibilities include
managing the Strengthening Families Program, the Air Preserve initiative and
supporting various intern activities. She holds a degree from the University of Central
Florida (UCF) and has experience working at a public library.

Maureen and Philip delve into the goals and successes of the Air Preserve initiative,
which aims to raise awareness and gather public opinion on secondhand smoke and
vaping in public places. They discuss ongoing efforts in the Upstate, particularly in
Mauldin and Greer, South Carolina. Additionally, they discuss upcoming events that
Just Say Something is involved in, such as a pickleball tournament, the Hispanic
Heritage Month celebration, and the Red Ribbon 5K. Community members are needed to get involved, participate in surveys, and advocate for a smoke-free environment.

Maureen sums it up by saying, "Kids especially have the right to breathe in clean air
while they are outside in a public setting."

Key Takeaways:
-Air Preserve Initiative: The project focuses on educating the public about the
dangers of secondhand smoke and gathering opinions on smoke-free public
places.
-Community Involvement: Encouragement for community members to
participate in surveys and attend city council meetings to support smoke-free
policies.
-Strengthening Families Program: Information on the program's upcoming
sessions and a call for interested families to participate.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at
(864)467-4099.
#justsaysomethingpodcast #phillipclark #maureengavin #airpreserve #redribbon5k
#pickleballtournament #hispanicheritagemonth #communityinvolvement #families

Upcoming Events:

o Pickleball Tournament: September 19-22 at East Riverside Park, Greer
o Hispanic Heritage Month Event: September 29 at Good Art Company, 10
Central Avenue, Greenville
o Red Ribbon 5K: October 6 at Sugar Creek, Greer

In this episode, host Philip Clark, CEO of Just Say Something in Greenville, welcomes
Tyra Lawrence from Crossroads Treatment Center. With a background as a Certified
Tyra, a Narcan Trainer and Community Health Worker, brings a wealth of experience and
dedication to her role. Her personal journey, having been affected by a family member with
a drug overdose and witnessing the devastating effects of opioid addiction in her
hometown of Philadelphia, drives her commitment to this vital work. Tyra also shares
her personal story, her professional journey, and her passionate commitment to helping
those affected by substance use disorders.

Tyra elaborates on the operations of Crossroads Treatment Center, an outpatient opioid
addiction facility dedicated to providing comprehensive care to individuals addicted to
opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone. They discuss the alarming rise of the
drug xylazine, commonly referred to as trank, shedding light on the grave
consequences and the lack of available treatment options. Tyra tells Phillip, "It's
heartbreaking to see the devastating effects of xylazine, with people walking around
with sores and maggots in their flesh."

Philip and Tyra both emphasize the need for community outreach and education to prevent substance abuse and support those in need. They discuss upcoming community events and collaborations to raise awareness and provide crucial resources. Phillip says, "Our goal is to educate the community, provide resources, and support those struggling with substance use disorders.”

Key Takeaways:
-Crossroads Treatment Center provides comprehensive outpatient care for opioid
addiction, including counseling and peer support.
-Xylazine, also known as trank, is an animal tranquilizer being misused by
humans, causing severe health issues like flesh-eating bacteria.
-The opioid crisis is evolving, with new substances appearing faster than
authorities can classify and regulate them.
-Community events and partnerships are crucial in raising awareness and
providing substance use prevention and recovery resources.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at
(864)467-4099.

#justsaysomethingpodcast #phillipclark #tyralawrence #narcantraining #opioidcrisis
#crossroadstreatmentcenter #communityevents #raisingawareness #xylazine #trank

This week's podcast episode features CEO/Philip Clark and Kristen Seward.

Kristen Seward is the newest staff member at Just Say Something. She has recently taken on
the role of Program Manager for the Strengthening Families Program (SFP). Kristen is
actively involved in delivering and facilitating parenting classes, having just completed
her first cycle of the Parenting Wisely program. Her commitment to family and
community well-being drives her passion for helping parents develop effective skills for
raising children.

Phillip and Kristen dive into the Parenting Wisely program, a five-week class
designed to equip parents with key skills for raising children ages birth to around nine or
ten years old. Kristen shares her firsthand experience of facilitating her very first
parenting class and the impactful outcomes that emerged. As she tells Phillip, "I believe
talking things through with my kids will help them be more willing to communicate with
others as they become more a part of society and help them feel open to talk to me
about anything."

Their conversation continues with a detailed overview of what Parenting Wisely entails,
touching on essential topics such as communication, discipline, and the importance of
routines like sleep schedules. Kristen highlights the surprising insights and skills
participants gain, often reshaping their initial skepticism into valuable learning
experiences. Through personal stories and real-life feedback from participants, Kristen
and Philip underscore the transformative power of these parenting programs. Phillip
explains, "No one has ever said or is saying that any of you are bad parents. This is
professional development for moms and dads."

Key Takeaways:
-Parenting Wisely Program: A five-week class aimed at parents of children aged
birth to ten, covering fundamental topics like communication, medication safety,
and sleep schedules.
-Parent Feedback: Many parents initially skeptical about needing a parenting
class find the program beneficial, providing new techniques and refreshing
essential parenting skills.
-Communication: The class stresses the importance of maintaining open lines of
communication with children, using tools like conversation cards to facilitate
better dialogue.

-Professional Development for Parents: Encourages parents to view the
program as a form of professional development, offering new and effective
strategies for family management.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at
(864)467-4099.

#justsaysomethingpodcast #phillipclark #kristenseward #strengtheningfamiliesprogram
#parentingwisely #discipline #consistency #communication #feedback #development

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, Host and CEO Philip Clark
talks with Geno Church, an integral player in the newly launched Power Collective
initiative.

Geno has had a long-standing involvement with Just Say Something, dating
back to its origins as Greenville Family Partnership. He is a seasoned
creative design and word-of-mouth marketing veteran, with a wealth of experience spanning
global projects. Geno is passionate about leveraging his skills to foster community
engagement and awareness around critical issues such as substance abuse
prevention. As he puts it, "The power of the collective is greater than anything I could
create with my wrist or brain."

Phillip and Geno dive into the creative genesis and strategic planning behind the Power
Collective, highlighting key insights into effective grassroots marketing and the role of
community in spreading impactful messages. Geno shares with Phillip his journey from
his early days with Just Say Something, demonstrating how decades of design and
marketing experience have culminated in this powerful initiative. Geno says, "What hit
me was the power around the table of parents facing this crisis personally; that was far
greater than any design I could create."

Don't miss out on learning about their innovative approaches, including partnerships
with local events, such as pickleball tournaments and car shows, to expand their
outreach.

Key Takeaways:
-Collaborative Efforts: The Power Collective is a joint initiative involving multiple
partners to tackle the opioid crisis and mental health challenges through
community-driven strategies.
-Grassroots Marketing: Emphasizing the importance of leveraging existing
community events for outreach rather than organizing new ones.
-Tangible Tools: Introduction of lockable prescription vials as a practical tool for
preventing substance misuse, with a significant potential impact on public health
and safety.
-Innovative Merchandise: Launch of Power Collective-themed merchandise,
including T-shirts with vintage car designs to broaden visibility and generate
funds.
-Comprehensive Resources: Commitment to providing communities with a
range of supportive resources, including Narcan and fentanyl test strips.

For more information, please us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org and
www.powercollectivesc.com. Also, you can always give us a call at (864)467-4099.

#justsaysomethingpodcast #phillipclark #genochurch #powercollective #carshows
#pickleballtournaments #opioidcrisis #grassroots #community #planning #passion

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, CEO and host Philip Clark
welcomes Tiffney Davidson-Parker, the new CEO of NAMI Greenville SC. Tiffney began her journey
with a scholarship to Howard University and has since held significant roles such as
leading an initiative with the Department of Mental Health in DC, serving as the first
clinical director for Gateway House, and co-founding Universal Therapeutic Services.
Her dedication to systemic change and deep experience in case management, policy
research, and program development have positioned her as a key figure in the field of
mental health advocacy and services.

Tiffney shares Phillip her extensive background in mental health and social work,
tracing her path from Howard University to her current leadership role. The conversation
delves into the motivations behind her career choices and her commitment to driving
systemic change in mental health care. She tells Phillip, "The field of mental health care
found me."

Tiffney also discusses with Phillip about her transition from self-employment to
spearheading initiatives at NAMI Greenville SC. She highlights the critical need for mental
health support, particularly for families and individuals dealing with mental illness.
Tiffney provides insights into the signs of mental health issues, the challenges faced by
different community segments, such as veterans, and the various programs and
resources offered by NAMI Greenville SC. As she explains, "When they go silent, that
means that there are some other things that's happened along the way before they go
silent.

Finally, Tiffney gives valuable information on how to get involved, whether through
volunteering or seeking support, emphasizing that no one has to face mental health
challenges alone. She says, "When you're doing the work and you care about it from
your heart, every need will be provided, even those that you didn't ask for."

Key Takeaways:
 Mental Health Advocacy: Tiffney Davidson-Parker has a deep-rooted commitment to
mental health advocacy, focusing on systemic change and community support.

 Notable Experience: Tiffney's journey includes influential roles and initiatives in
mental health care and social work, showcasing her extensive experience and
dedication.

 Support Programs: NAMI Greenville, SC offers free support programs for individuals
and families dealing with mental illness, including in-person and hybrid support
groups.
 Signs of Mental Illness: Key indicators of mental health issues include
prolonged changes in behavior, isolation, and negative self-talk, applicable to
both youths and adults.
 Volunteering Opportunities: Nami Greenville welcomes volunteers, especially
those with lived experience, to facilitate support groups and share their stories,
making a significant impact in the community.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at
(864)467-4099.

#justsaysomethingpodcast #phillipclark #tiffneyparker #upstatewarriorssolutions
#universaltherapeuticservices #namigreenville #volunteers #mentalhealth #support

In this episode of the Just Say Something Podcast, CEO and host Philip Clark
welcomes James Campbell, a seasoned professional in the field of human services.

With nine years focused on mental health and high management services, James has
spent the last 20 years specializing in the prevention, treatment, and recovery of
substance use disorders and addiction. Currently, James is a key figure in the
Wellbeing Partnership of Greenville County, where he collaborates with various
organizations to promote mental health and wellness in the community.

Phillip and James delve into the invaluable work of the Wellbeing Partnership in
Greenville County, an initiative that brings together non-profit, for-profit, and various
human services organizations to improve mental health and tackle substance use
disorders through collective action. James explains, "The Wellbeing Partnership
focuses on data and learning, advocacy and public policy, and solutions and innovation
to make collective impacts in the community."

James Campbell discusses the importance of reducing stigma around mental health
and addiction and introduces key resources available for those in crisis, including the
newly established 988 mental health crisis line. Emphasis is placed on the critical roles
of community support, inter-organizational collaboration, and strategic initiatives
informed by data to address these pervasive issues within the Greenville
area effectively. James stresses to Phillip, "Only about one in ten people who could benefit from
support and treatment ever grace the door of any type of formal support at all. One in
three people are going to struggle with an alcohol use disorder at some point in their
lives. We want to be a part of connecting those dots and helping the community access
the resources that are there."

Key Takeaways:
-Stigma Reduction: Reducing stigma around addiction and mental health
disorders are vital for encouraging individuals to seek help. Language and societal
attitudes play a significant role in this process.
-Critical Resources: The introduction of the 988 crisis line provides an easily
accessible resource for those in mental health crises, similar to 911 for
emergencies.

-Wellbeing Partnership Initiatives: The Wellbeing Partnership focuses on data-
driven strategies, supporting collective impact and innovative solutions to
address community needs.
-Community Involvement: Businesses, churches, schools, and individuals within
the community are encouraged to get involved, seek training, and utilize
available resources to support those struggling with mental health and substance
use disorders.
-Upcoming Events: Key events such as the "Unifying Mental Wellness" event on
September 28 and the "Upstate Behavioral Health and Wellness Forum" on
November 14 are crucial for raising awareness and connecting resources within
the community.

For more information, please visit us at www.justsaysomethingsc.org or give us a call at
(864)467-4099.

#justsaysomethingpodcast #phillipclark #jamescampbell #wellbeingpartnership
#greenvillecounty #988crisisline #stigmareduction #communityinvolvement